Massage device and method of use

ABSTRACT

A massage device that includes a housing, an electrical input, a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical input and the motor and configured to selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, an actuated output operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, and a treatment structure operatively connected to a distal end of the actuated output. The actuated output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 15 Hz and about 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.15 and about 1.0 inches. The combination of amplitude and frequency provides efficient reciprocation of the treatment structure such that the treatment structure provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to a targeted muscle of a user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/458,920, filed on Mar. 14, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/186,859, filed on Jun. 20, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/182,525, filed on Jun. 20, 2015, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to massage devices and more particularly to a massage device that provides reciprocating motion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Massage devices often provide ineffective massages that are superficial and do not provide any real benefit. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved massage device.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a massage device that includes a housing, an electrical input, a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical input and the motor and configured to selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, an actuated output operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, and a treatment structure operatively connected to a distal end of the actuated output. The actuated output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 15 Hz and about 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.15 and about 1.0 inches. The combination of amplitude and frequency provides efficient reciprocation of the treatment structure such that the treatment structure provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to a targeted muscle of a user.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuated output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 25 Hz and about 48 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.23 and about 0.70 inches. In another preferred embodiment, the actuated output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between about 33 Hz and about 42 Hz, and at an amplitude of between about 0.35 and about 0.65 inches.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is configured to rotate a shaft having a shaft gear thereon about a shaft rotation axis. The housing includes a gear member disposed therein that is operatively engaged with the shaft gear and rotates about a gear rotation axis. The actuated output is operatively connected to the gear member, and the rotational motion of the shaft is converted to reciprocating motion of the actuated output through the engagement of the shaft gear and the gear member. Preferably, the gear rotation axis is perpendicular to the shaft rotation axis and an eccentric interface is disposed on the gear member at a location other than the gear rotation axis. Preferably, the device further includes a reciprocator shaft operatively connected to the eccentric interface, and a containment member. A head of the reciprocator shaft is contained by the containment member to restrict motion of the reciprocator shaft to a linear motion that is perpendicular to the gear rotation axis. In a preferred embodiment, the gear member comprises a counterweight disposed on the gear member, and the center of mass of the counterweight is not on the gear rotation axis. Preferably, the head of the reciprocator shaft includes an elongated opening therein, the eccentric interface includes a pin, and the pin is configured to move within the elongated opening as the gear member rotates.

In a preferred embodiment, the massage device includes a rotation housing. The main housing includes a rotation space defined therein. The rotation housing includes a main body portion disposed in the housing and an arm portion extending through the rotation space and outside the housing, wherein the actuated output extends outwardly from the arm portion, and the rotation housing can rotate within the rotation space between a plurality of positions. Preferably, the massage device includes a button extending outwardly from the housing that is movable between a first position and a second position. The button includes a plurality of teeth members. The housing includes a plurality of first teeth spaces defined therein and the rotation housing includes a plurality of second teeth spaces defined therein. When the button is in the first position the teeth members engage the first teeth spaces and the rotation housing cannot rotate. When the button is in the second position (when it is pressed in and overcomes the spring bias) the teeth members engage the second teeth spaces and the rotation housing can rotate.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reciprocating treatment device that includes a housing, a handle disposed on the housing, the handle having a handle axis, a motor disposed in the housing, and an actuated output operably connected to the motor. The actuated output is configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. The reciprocation is along a reciprocation axis. The motor includes a shaft having a shaft rotation axis, and the shaft rotation axis lies in a plane defined by the handle axis and the reciprocation axis (they are all coplanar).

In a preferred embodiment, the reciprocating treatment device includes a gearbox to convert rotary motion from the shaft to reciprocal motion at the actuated output. Preferably, the gearbox includes a gear member having a gear rotation axis perpendicular to the shaft rotation axis, and an eccentric interface disposed on the gear at a location other than the gear rotation axis. The device also includes a reciprocator shaft operatively connected to the eccentric interface, and a reciprocator interface configured to restrict linear motion of the reciprocator shaft to a direction parallel to the reciprocation axis and perpendicular to the gear rotation axis. The gear member preferably includes a counterweight disposed on the gear member. The center of mass of the counterweight is not on the gear rotation axis.

In a preferred embodiment, the counterweight has a mass similar to the components of the reciprocating treatment device that reciprocate along the reciprocation axis. Preferably, the counterweight has a mass between 45 grams and 55 grams. In a preferred embodiment, the gearbox is connected to a compliant dampening block and the compliant dampening block is connected to the housing. Preferably, the compliant dampening block comprises a polymer. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft is operably connected with the gearbox through a compliant shaft damper.

An embodiment provides a reciprocal treatment device. The reciprocal treatment device includes a housing, a motor connected to the housing, and an actuated output. The housing includes a handle located on the housing. The handle has a handle axis. The actuated output is operably connected to the motor. The actuated output is configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. Reciprocation of the actuated output is along a reciprocation axis. The motor includes a shaft having a shaft rotation axis. The shaft rotation axis is parallel to a plane in which the handle axis and the reciprocation axis are located. Other embodiments of a reciprocal treatment device are also described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a reciprocating treatment device;

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of one embodiment of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict perspective views of embodiments of actuation components the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 depicts a side view of one embodiment of actuation components of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method of manufacture of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method of use of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a reciprocating treatment device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 7 with a portion of the housing removed to show the motor and actuation components;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the motor and actuation components of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11A depicts the reciprocator shaft in the extended position;

FIG. 11B depicts the reciprocator shaft between the extended and retracted positions;

FIG. 11C depicts the reciprocator shaft in the retracted position;

FIG. 11D depicts the reciprocator shaft between the extended and retracted positions;

FIG. 11E depicts the reciprocator shaft in the extended position, but after being rotated relative to FIGS. 11A-11D;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the components associated with the rotation of the arm; and

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view with the rotation housing and actuated output rotated to a vertical position (compare to the horizontal position in FIG. 7).

Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or another embodiment in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are, references to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of the embodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. Appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotation marks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way.

Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein. Nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” and “below” used herein are merely for ease of description and refer to the orientation of the components as shown in the figures. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the present invention.

While many embodiments are described herein, at least some of the described embodiments provide an apparatus, system, and method for a reciprocating treatment device.

FIGS. 1-12 show embodiments of a reciprocating treatment device 100. FIGS. 1-4 show the device in schematic form and FIGS. 7-12 show the device 100 in more detail.

FIG. 1 depicts a cutaway side view of one embodiment of a reciprocating treatment device 100. Reference is also made to FIGS. 7-8. The reciprocating treatment device 100 includes a housing 101, a power input 102, a switch 104, a motor 106, and an actuated output 108. The reciprocating treatment device 100, in some embodiments, generates motion at the actuated output 108 for treating a patient.

The housing 101, in one embodiment, is a structure allowing for connection of one or more other components of the reciprocating treatment device 100. The housing 101 may completely or substantially enclose one or more other components. For example, the housing 101 may be a formed structure with attachment points for other components that substantially encloses one or more of those components when assembled. In another embodiment, the housing 101 may allow other components to be exposed. For example, the housing 101 may be an open frame. In some embodiments, the housing 101 encloses one or more components of the reciprocating treatment device 101 and leaves one or more other components of the reciprocating treatment device 101 exposed.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, the housing 101 includes a handle 120. The handle 120 defines a handle axis 122 that runs substantially along the longest dimension of the handle 120. In some embodiments, the handle 120 is straight or substantially straight along its longest dimension, and the handle axis 122 runs through the center or substantially through the center of the handle 120. In another embodiment, the handle 120 is curved along its longest dimension, and the handle axis 122 is tangent to the curvature of the handle 120 at the midpoint of the handle 120. In a preferred embodiment, the handle 120 has a top surface 120 a that is shaped that it can be ergonomically gripped by a persons palm. This provides comfort for a user when operating the device. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,105,891, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, which teaches a fishing reel knob that includes a similar shape that conforms to the user's palm.

The power input 102, in some embodiments, is configured to receive a power input from a power source 114. The power source 114 may be any type of power source capable of supplying power to the motor 106. In one embodiment, the power input 102 receives an electrical input from the power source 114. For example, the power source 114 may be a battery that provides electrical current. In one embodiment, the battery is a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the battery is attachable to the reciprocating treatment device 100 such that the reciprocating treatment device 100 including the power source 114 is portable and cordless. In an alternative embodiment, the reciprocating treatment device 100 uses an external battery pack as a power source 114.

The battery may be any type of battery known in the art. For example, the battery may include a rechargeable lithium-ion (LiIon) based battery. In another example, the battery may include a rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery. In yet another example, the battery may include a rechargeable lithium-polymer (LiPo) battery. In some embodiments, the battery includes a nickel-cadmium (NiCad) battery. In one embodiment, the battery uses a non-rechargeable battery.

In an alternative embodiment, the power input 102 includes a cord to receive power from an electrical grid. For example, the reciprocating treatment device 100 may include a cord with a plug configured to interface with a wall socket to provide power.

In another alternative embodiment, the power input 102 is non-electrical. For example, the power input 102 may receive pressurized air from a pressure vessel or a network of pressurized air. In another embodiment, the power input 102 may include one or more reactive materials to provide energy for operation of the reciprocating treatment device 100.

The switch 104, in some embodiments, controls delivery of power to the motor 106. The switch 104 may be an electrical switch configured to allow passage of electric current when activated. In some embodiments, the switch 104 is a binary on/off switch. In another embodiment, the switch 104 is a variable switch. A variable switch controls the amount of power delivered to the motor 106. A relatively high amount of power delivered to the motor 106 by the variable switch 104 results in an increased speed of the motor 106. Are relatively low amount of power delivered to the motor 106 by the variable switch 104 results in a decreased speed of the motor 106. In one embodiment, the variable switch 104 includes a variable resistor that allows a progressively increased amount of power to flow to the motor 106 in response to a progressively increasing activation of that switch 104.

In some embodiments, the switch 104 may remain in an activated position in response to a user releasing the switch 104. In an alternate embodiment, the switch 104 may return to a deactivated position in response to a user releasing the switch 104. For example, the switch 104 may include a biasing member such as a spring configured to push the switch 104 to the deactivated position in response to the switch 104 being released.

In certain embodiments, the switch 104 includes multiple positions. For example, the switch 104 may include an off position, a first activated position, and a second activated position. The switch 104 may include one or more positions in which without additional user input, the switch 104 remains in that position, and one or more positions in which without additional user input, the switch 104 is biased to exit that position.

For example, the switch 104 may have an “off” position, an “on” position, and a “turbo” position. The “on” and “turbo” positions may activate reciprocation at different rates, such as 2300 cycles per minute in the “on” position and 2800 cycles per minute in the “turbo” position. Upon being set to the “on” position, the switch 104 may remain in the “on” position without requiring the user to maintain contact with the switch 104. Upon being set to the “turbo” position, the switch 104 may be biased to return to the “on” position unless the user maintains a force on the switch 104 that opposes a return to the “on” position.

The motor 106, in one embodiment, converts power from the power source 102 into motion. In some embodiments, the motor 106 is an electric motor. The electric motor may be any type of electric motor known in the art, including, but not limited to, a brushed motor, a brushless motor, a direct current (DC) motor, an alternating current (AC) motor, a mechanical-commutator motor, an electronic commutator motor, or an externally commutated motor.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 operates at a speed that can be varied by different levels of activation of the switch 104. For example, the motor 106 may operate at a maximum rate in response to a maximum activation of the switch 104. The motor 106 may operate at a lower rate in response to a less than maximum activation of the switch 104.

The motor 106 may produce rotary motion. The rotary motion delivered by the motor 106 may be delivered through a shaft 116. The shaft 116 may rotate around a shaft axis 126. In some embodiments, the reciprocating treatment device 100 may include a linkage to convert the rotary motion of the motor 106 into reciprocating motion. An embodiment of a linkage is shown in greater detail in relation to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 8-10 below.

In an alternative embodiment, the motor 106 may produce reciprocating motion. For example, the motor 106 may include a reciprocating pneumatic cylinder that reciprocates in response to an input of compressed air.

The actuated output 108, in some embodiments, reciprocates in response to an input from the motor 106. For example, the motor 106 may produce rotary motion. A gearbox may be connected to the motor 106 to convert the rotary motion to reciprocating motion. The gearbox may be connected to the actuated output 108. An embodiment of the gearbox is shown in greater detail in relation to FIGS. 4 and 8-10 below.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 reciprocates at a rate of approximately 65 Hz. The actuated output 108, in some embodiments, reciprocates at a rate over 50 Hz. The reciprocating treatment device 100, in some embodiments, provides reciprocation at a rate ranging between 50 Hz and 80 Hz. In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 has a maximum articulation rate of between 50 Hz and 80 Hz. In another embodiment, the actuated output 108 has an articulation rate of between 30 Hz and 80 Hz. In certain embodiments, the actuated output 108 has an articulation rate of approximately 37 Hz. In one embodiment, the actuated output 108 has an articulation rate of approximately 60 Hz. In a preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 15 Hz and about 100 Hz. In a more preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 25 Hz and about 48 Hz. In the most preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 33 Hz and about 42 Hz. Any chosen range within the specified ranges is within the scope of the present invention.

The actuated output 108 may move through a predetermined range of reciprocation. For example, the actuated output 108 may be configured to have an amplitude of one half inch. In another embodiment, the actuated output 108 may be configured to have an amplitude of one quarter inch. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the actuated output 108 may be configured to have any amplitude deemed therapeutically beneficial.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 may be adjustable through a variable range of reciprocation. For example, the reciprocating treatment device 100 may include an input to adjust the reciprocation amplitude from one quarter of an inch through a range of up to one inch. In a preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 moves through an amplitude of between about 0.15 inches and about 1.0 inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 0.23 inches and about 0.70 inches. In the most preferred embodiment, the actuated output 108 articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of between about 0.35 inches and about 0.65 inches. Any chosen range within the specified ranges is within the scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that the device operates most effectively within the combined frequency and amplitude ranges. When developing the invention, the inventor determined that if the frequency and amplitude are above the ranges set forth above the device can cause pain and below the ranges the device is ineffective and does not provide effective therapeutic relief or massage. Only when the device operates within the disclosed combination of frequency and amplitude ranges does it provide efficient and therapeutically beneficial treatment to the muscles targeted by the device.

In certain embodiments, the reciprocating treatment device 100 includes one or more components to regulate the articulation rate of the actuated output 108 in response to varying levels of power provided at the power input 102. For example, the reciprocating treatment device 100 may include a voltage regulator (not shown) to provide a substantially constant voltage to the motor 106 over a range of input voltages. In another embodiment, the current provided to the motor 106 may be regulated. In some embodiments, operation of the reciprocating treatment device 100 may be restricted in response to an input voltage being below a preset value.

In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 includes a connector 110 for connection of an attachment. In some embodiments, the actuated output 108 includes a securing mechanism 112 for securing an attachment in the connection socket 110. The connector 110 may be any type of structure capable of retaining an attachment, such as a socket with a latch, a threaded connector, or the like.

For example, the securing mechanism 112 may include a biased structure, such as a spring, to bias the securing mechanism 112 toward a locked position. In the locked position, the securing mechanism 112 may restrict removal of an attachment. The biased structure may be articulated by a user to move the securing mechanism 112 toward an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the securing mechanism 112 may allow removal of an attachment.

In some embodiments, the securing mechanism 112 includes a keyway to interact with a key on an attachment. The keyway may be selectively opened and closed by articulation of the securing mechanism 112. Removal of an attachment may be restricted in response to the keyway being closed.

As shown in FIG. 9, in another embodiment, the connector 110 can be a male connector and can include at least one (and preferably two) outwardly biased ball bearings 110 a that mate with the treatment structure 204.

In certain embodiments, the actuated output 108 reciprocates along a linear or substantially linear path. The path traveled by the actuated output 108 defines a reciprocation axis 124. In certain embodiments, the reciprocation axis 124 runs through the geometric center of one or more components of the actuated output 108.

The actuated output 108, in some embodiments, includes a safety extension 128 between a portion of the housing 101 and a protruding portion, such as the connection mechanism 112. The safety extension 128 provides a region of the actuated output 108 with a substantially constant cross-sectional profile. The safety extension 128 reduces the risk of pinching a body part, such as a finger, as the actuated output 108 actuates. The safety extension 128 may be defined as the region of the actuated output 108 between any non-reciprocating component, such as the housing 101, and any component of the actuated output 108 that has a relatively large or extending cross section, such as the connection mechanism. In one embodiment, the length of the safety extension 128 along the reciprocation axis 124, when measured when the actuated output 108 is fully retracted, is larger than the width of any of an average user's fingers. In some embodiments, the length of the safety extension 128 along the reciprocation axis 124, when measured when the actuated output 108 is fully retracted, is at least 18 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 is connected to the housing 101 such that the shaft rotation axis 126 is parallel to a plane defined by the handle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124. In one embodiment, the motor 106 is connected to the housing 101 such that the shaft rotation axis 126 is coplanar with a plane defined by the handle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124.

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of one embodiment of the reciprocating treatment device 100 of FIG. 1. The reciprocating treatment device 100 includes an attachment 202, a treatment structure 204, and a rest surface 206. The reciprocating treatment device 100, in one embodiment, generates reciprocating motion at the treatment structure 204 for treating a patient.

The attachment 202 may be an interchangeable, user selectable component that is connectable to the actuated output 108. The attachment 202 may include a treatment structure 204 designed to interact with a patient.

The rest surface 206 is a surface disposed on the housing 101. The rest surface 206 is configured such that when the reciprocating treatment device 100 has the rest surface 206 placed on a flat, horizontal surface, the reciprocating treatment device 100 is capable of resting in that position without application of an external force. In other words, when resting as described above, a line drawn downward from a center of gravity of the reciprocating treatment device 100 passes through the rest surface 206. As used in this paragraph, “downward” refers to a direction in which gravity applies a force to objects having mass.

FIGS. 3A, 3B and 8-11E depict views of embodiments of the actuation components 300 for the reciprocating treatment device 100. The actuation components 300 generally include the motor 106, a compliant shaft damper 302, a shaft 116 with a shaft gear 117 thereon, a gear member 304, an eccentric interface 306, a reciprocator interface 308, a reciprocator shaft 310, and an actuated output 108. The motor 106, the shaft 116, and the actuated output 108 are similar to like-numbered components described above in relation to FIG. 1. The actuation components 300 create motion that is delivered at the actuated output 108.

In one embodiment, rotary motion is delivered from the motor 106 via the shaft 116 and gear 107. In certain embodiments, the motor 106 is connected to other components of the actuation components 300 by a compliant shaft damper 302. The compliant shaft damper 302 comprises a compliant material configured to absorb vibration generated by the actuation components 300. The compliant shaft damper 302 may transmit rotary motion generated by the motor 106 while deforming under vibration loads, thus absorbing or partially absorbing and reducing vibration in the reciprocating treatment device 100.

The compliant shaft damper 302 may include any material capable of absorbing vibration. In some embodiments, the compliant shaft damper 302 includes a polymer. For example, the compliant shaft damper 302 may include a flexible polymer. In one example, the compliant shaft damper 302 includes polyurethane foam, thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”), including but not limited to Styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s), Polyolefin blends (TPE-o), Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV), Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), Thermoplastic copolyester, or Thermoplastic polyamide. In another example, the compliant shaft damper 302 may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low durometer PVC, or a urethane.

The gear member 304, in one embodiment, receives rotary motion generated by the motor 106. In some embodiments, the gear member 304 rotates in response to rotation of the motor 106. In one embodiment, the gear member 304 rotates around a rotation axis 316 that is perpendicular to a shaft rotation axis 126. For example, the gear member 304 may be part of a bevel gear, a spiral bevel gear, or a hypoid gear. Such gears may have the effect of rotating an axis of rotation by 90 degrees.

In some embodiments, the gear member 304 includes an eccentric interface 306. The eccentric interface 306 is disposed on a surface of the gear member 304 such that it or its center is at a location not on the gear rotation axis 316. In other words, if the gear member 304 is round, the eccentric interface 306 is not disposed at the center of the gear member 304.

In response to rotation of the gear member 304 and subsequent motion of the eccentric interface 306, the reciprocator interface 308 restricts linear motion of the eccentric interface 306 relative to the reciprocator interface 308 to a direction perpendicular to both the reciprocation axis 124 and the gear rotation axis 316. In other words, the eccentric interface 306 is free to slide side-to-side within the reciprocator interface 308 as the gear member 304 rotates. Note that the in addition to sliding relative to the reciprocator interface 308, the eccentric interface 306 may rotate.

As shown in FIG. 9, in a preferred embodiment, the eccentric interface 306 includes a pin 22 and sleeve 24. The pin 22 is received in an off-center opening 26 defined in or through the gear member 304. The sleeve 24 is received in an elongated opening 34 that is defined in an end or head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310.

The eccentric interface 306, in one embodiment, interfaces with a reciprocator interface or containment member 308. The containment member 308 contains the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310 and defines a reciprocation space 38 in which the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310 and the eccentric interface components 306 can reciprocate. The containment member 308 includes legs 40 that each include an interior surface that defines a step 42 therein and an opening 41 defined therein. The larger dimension between the legs defines a space for the head 36 to reciprocate and the smaller dimension between the legs defines a space for the sleeve to reciprocate. In a preferred embodiment, the reciprocator shaft 310 is L-shaped or includes an arm portion so that it connects to the actuated output or shaft 108 along the reciprocation axis.

In some embodiments, the effect of the interaction between the eccentric interface 306 and the reciprocator interface 308 is to convert rotary motion at the gear member 304 to reciprocating, linear motion at the reciprocator shaft 310. The reciprocator shaft 310 transmits reciprocating, linear motion to the actuated output 108.

As shown in FIGS. 3B and 9, in one embodiment, the gear member 304 includes a counterweight 312. The counterweight 312 is configured to oppose inertial forces generated by the reciprocating motion of the actuated output 108. The counterweight 312 may be positioned on the gear member 304 such that its center of mass 314 is not located along the gear rotation axis 316. In certain embodiments, a first direction from the gear rotation axis 316 to the center of mass 314 of the counterweight 312 may be the opposite direction from a second direction from the gear rotation axis 316 to the center of the eccentric interface 306. Preferably, the counterweight 312 is located on one side of the gear member 304 and the gear teeth are located on the opposite side. In another embodiment, the gear and counterweight can be separate parts.

In some embodiments, as the reciprocating treatment device 100 operates, the counterweight 312 applies at least a component of force in the opposite direction to a reaction force applied to the eccentric interface 306 by the reciprocator interface 308. In other words, the counterweight 312 may serve to counteract an inertial force generated by reciprocating components and reduce vibration caused by reciprocal motion of the actuated output 108.

In some embodiments, the counterweight 312 may be sized to match reciprocating components of the reciprocating treatment device 100. For example, the counterweight 312 may have a mass similar to reciprocating components, including, for example, the reciprocator shaft 310, the actuated output 108, and an attachment 202. In another embodiment, the counterweight has a mass between 45 grams and 55 grams.

FIG. 11A shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the extended position and FIG. 11C shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the retracted position. FIGS. 11B and 11D show the reciprocator shaft in between the retracted and extended positions. Note how the pin 22 and sleeve 24 (eccentric interface) move within elongated opening 34 and the containment member 308 keeps the head 36 of the reciprocator shaft 310 moving linearly. FIG. 11E shows the reciprocator shaft 310 in the extended position, but after the rotation assembly 47 has been rotated, as discussed below.

As shown in FIGS. 8-10, the actuation components 300 include a guide member 30 that includes a central opening through which the reciprocator shaft 310 extends. The guide member 30 is housed in the rotation housing 44 and remains stationary as the reciprocator shaft moves therein. In a preferred embodiment, the actuation components 300 also include a pin or axle 16 on which the gear member 304 rotates a bearing 14 and a dampening ring 28 for damping the connection between the housing and the metal components.

FIGS. 4 and 8-11E depict embodiments of actuation components 300 of the reciprocating treatment device 100. The actuation components include the motor 106, the gear member 304, the reciprocator shaft 310, one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 and, a gearbox 404. The actuation components 300 provide reciprocating motion through the reciprocator shaft 310 and manage vibration transmitted to the housing 101.

The one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 manage vibration conducted from the actuation components 300 to the housing 101. The one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may be disposed between the actuation components 300 and the housing 101.

The one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may include any material capable of absorbing vibration. In some embodiments, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 include a polymer. For example, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may include a flexible polymer. In one example, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 include polyurethane foam, thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”), including but not limited to Styrenic block copolymers (TPE-s), Polyolefin blends (TPE-o), Elastomeric alloys (TPE-v or TPV), Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), Thermoplastic copolyester, or Thermoplastic polyamide. In another example, the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402 may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low durometer PVC, or a urethane.

The gearbox 404, in one embodiment, includes the gear member 304 and the reciprocator 310. The gearbox 404 may provide mounting points for the gear member 304 and the reciprocator 310. The gearbox 404 may restrict the motion of the gear member 304 and the reciprocator to certain directions or rotational axes. The gearbox 404 may be mounted to the housing 101. In some embodiments, the gearbox 404 is separated from the housing 101 by the one or more compliant dampening blocks 402.

As is shown in FIGS. 11C and 12, in some embodiments, the actuated output 108 and associated components is rotatable relative to the housing 101. The actuated output 108 may rotate relative to the housing 101 around an output rotation axis. In certain embodiments, the output rotation axis is parallel to the gear rotation axis 316. In one embodiment, the output rotation axis is concomitant with the gear rotation axis 316. For example, the actuated output 108, the reciprocator 310, and the reciprocator interface 308 may be selectively rotatable around the gear rotation axis 316.

In one embodiment, rotation of the actuated output 108 may be selectively locked and unlocked by a user. For example, the user may unlock rotation of the actuated output 108, rotate the actuated output 108 to a desired position relative to the housing 101, lock rotation of the actuated output 108, and operate the reciprocating treatment device 100.

As shown in FIG. 12 in a preferred embodiment, the rotation assembly 47 includes the rotation housing 44 (which includes first and second rotation housing halves 44 a and 44 b), an articulation lock or button 46 having teeth 48 thereon and a spring 18 that contacts seating surface 43. The gear member 304, reciprocator shaft 310, axle 16, a portion of the gear box 404, and bearing 14 are all housed in the rotation housing 44. The assembly also includes a gear box cover 56 and dampening ring 52. Button 46 is outwardly biased by spring 18 to a position where teeth 48 are engaged with teeth 50 defined in housing 101. The button 46 is movable between a first position where teeth 48 are engaged with teeth 50 and a second position where teeth 48 are engaged with teeth 54 in the second rotation housing half 44 b. When the button 46 is in the first position, the rotation assembly 47 cannot rotate. When the button is pushed to the second position, the teeth 48 disengage from teeth 50 and engage the teeth 54 in the rotation housing 44, thereby allowing the entire rotation assembly 47 to rotate. The rotation housing 44 includes a main body portion 62 disposed in the housing and an arm portion 64 extending through the rotation space 60 and outside the housing. The arm portion 64 rotates within the rotation space 60 defined in the housing 101. It will be appreciated, that when rotation occurs, gear member 304 and gear box 404 do not rotate (compare FIGS. 11A-11D to FIG. 11E), but the containment member 308 together with the actuated output 108 do rotate.

FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart diagram showing one embodiment of a method of manufacture of the reciprocating treatment device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are flowchart diagrams depicting embodiments of a method 500 for manufacturing the reciprocating treatment device 100 of FIG. 1 and a method 600 of use of the reciprocating treatment device 100 of FIG. 1. The methods 500, 600 are, in certain embodiments, methods of use of the system and apparatus described herein, and will be discussed with reference to those figures. Nevertheless, the methods 500, 600 may also be conducted independently thereof and are not intended to be limited specifically to the specific embodiments discussed above with respect to those figures.

As shown in FIG. 5, a method of manufacture 500 for a reciprocating treatment device 100 is shown. In one embodiment of the method of manufacture 500, a housing 101 is provided 502. The housing 101 may include a handle 120 and the handle 120 may define a handle axis 122. A motor 106 is connected 504 to the housing 101. The motor 106 may provide rotary motion.

In some embodiments, an actuated output 108 is operably connected 506 to the motor 106. The actuated output 108 may reciprocate in response to activation of the motor 106. Reciprocation of the actuated output 108 may be along a reciprocation axis 124.

In some embodiments, the motor 106 includes a shaft 116. The shaft 116 may rotate around a shaft rotation axis 126. The shaft rotation axis 126 may be parallel to a plane in which the handle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124 are located.

As shown in FIG. 6, a method of use 600 for a reciprocating treatment device 100 is shown. In one embodiment of the method of use 600, a force is applied 602 to a body part by an actuated output 108 of the reciprocal treatment device 100. The reciprocal treatment device 100 may include a housing 101. The housing 101 may include a handle 120 disposed on the housing 101. The handle 120 may define a handle axis 122.

The reciprocal treatment device 100 may also include a motor 106 connected to the housing 101. An actuated output 108 may be operably connected to the motor 106. The actuated output 108 may be configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor 106. Reciprocation of the actuated output 108 may be along a reciprocation axis 124.

The motor 106 may include a shaft 116 having a shaft rotation axis 126. The shaft rotation axis 126 may be parallel to a plane in which the handle axis 122 and the reciprocation axis 124 are located.

Although the operations of the method(s) herein are shown and described in a particular order, the order of the operations of each method may be altered so that certain operations may be performed in an inverse order or so that certain operations may be performed, at least in part, concurrently with other operations. In another embodiment, instructions or sub-operations of distinct operations may be implemented in an intermittent and/or alternating manner.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, or may be performed, at different times. Further any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values or ranges.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements or ranges. It will be appreciated that any dimensions given herein are only exemplary and that none of the dimensions or descriptions are limiting on the present invention.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the above description describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only one aspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as a means-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied in a computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6 will begin with the words “means for”). Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the disclosure.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes, modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A massage device comprising, a housing, an electrical input, a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical input and the motor, the switch configured to selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, an actuated output operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, a treatment structure operatively connected to a distal end of the actuated output, wherein the actuated output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of between 15 Hz and 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between 0.15 and 1.0 inches, and wherein the combination of amplitude and frequency provides efficient reciprocation of the treatment structure such that the treatment structure provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to a targeted muscle of a user, wherein the motor is configured to rotate a shaft having a shaft gear thereon about a shaft rotation axis, wherein the housing includes a gear member disposed therein that is operatively engaged with the shaft gear and rotates about a gear rotation axis, wherein the actuated output is operatively connected to the gear member, wherein rotational motion of the shaft is converted to reciprocating motion of the actuated output through the engagement of the shaft gear and the gear member, wherein an eccentric interface is disposed on the gear member at a location other than the gear rotation axis, and a reciprocator shaft operatively connected to the eccentric interface, and a containment member, wherein a head of the reciprocator shaft is contained by the containment member to restrict motion of the reciprocator shaft to a linear motion that is perpendicular to the gear rotation axis, wherein the containment member defines a reciprocation space in which the head of the reciprocator shaft can reciprocate, wherein the containment member includes legs that extend toward the gear member and at least partially define the reciprocation space, and wherein each leg defines a step on an inside surface thereof.
 2. The massage device of claim 1 wherein the gear rotation axis is perpendicular to the shaft rotation axis, wherein an eccentric interface is disposed on the gear member at a location other than the gear rotation axis.
 3. The massage device of claim 1 wherein the gear member comprises opposing first and second major surfaces, wherein a counterweight is disposed on the first major surface of the gear member, wherein the gear member includes teeth that are disposed on the second major surface of the gear member, and wherein a center of mass of the counterweight is not on the gear rotation axis.
 4. The massage device of claim 1 wherein the head of the reciprocator shaft includes an elongated opening therein, wherein the eccentric interface comprises a pin, and wherein the pin is configured to move within the elongated opening as the gear member rotates.
 5. The massage device of claim 1 further comprising a rotation housing, wherein the housing includes a rotation space defined therein, wherein the rotation housing includes a main body portion disposed in the housing and an arm portion extending through the rotation space and outside the housing, wherein the actuated output extends outwardly from the arm portion, and wherein the rotation housing can rotate within the rotation space between a plurality of positions, and further comprising an articulation lock that selectively allows rotation of the rotation housing between the plurality of positions, wherein the articulation lock is movable between a first position where the rotation housing cannot rotate and a second position where the rotation housing can rotate.
 6. The massage device of claim 5 wherein the articulation lock is a button that is biased outwardly from the housing by a spring and is movable between the first position and the second position, wherein the button includes a plurality of teeth members, wherein the housing includes a plurality of first teeth spaces defined therein, wherein the rotation housing includes a plurality of second teeth spaces defined therein, wherein when the button is in the first position the plurality of teeth members engage the plurality of first teeth spaces and the rotation housing cannot rotate, and wherein when the button is in the second position the plurality of teeth members engage the plurality of second teeth spaces and the rotation housing can rotate, wherein the rotation housing includes a button opening defined therethrough, wherein the spring extends through the button opening and is seated on a spring seating surface.
 7. The massage device of claim 6 wherein a gearbox is disposed in the housing, wherein a gearbox cover is disposed in an opening in the gearbox, wherein the spring seating surface is defined on the gearbox cover.
 8. The massage device of claim 1 further comprising a rotation housing, wherein the rotation housing together with the reciprocator shaft and the containment member are rotatable about the gear rotation axis between at least a first position and a second position, and wherein when the rotation housing, reciprocator shaft and containment member rotate between the first position and the second position, the gear member does not rotate.
 9. The massage device of claim 1 wherein the reciprocator shaft reciprocates along a first reciprocation axis, wherein an arm portion extends between the reciprocator shaft and the actuated output, wherein the actuated output reciprocates along a second reciprocation axis, and wherein the first reciprocation axis and second reciprocation axis are not co-axial.
 10. The massage device of claim 1 further comprising a spherically shaped guide member that includes a central opening defined therethrough, wherein the actuated output extends through the central opening, and wherein the guide member remains stationary as the actuated output moves therein.
 11. The massage device of claim 1 wherein the actuated output includes a male connector on a distal end thereof, wherein the male connector includes at least one outwardly biased ball bearing that is configured to mate with a treatment structure.
 12. The massage device of claim 11 wherein the at least one outwardly biased ball bearing extends outwardly from a flat surface on the male connector.
 13. The massage device of claim 1 wherein a compliant shaft damper is disposed between the motor and the shaft, wherein the compliant shaft damper comprises a compliant material that is configured to absorb vibration, wherein the compliant shaft damper is configured to transmit rotary motion generated by the motor while deforming under vibration loads.
 14. The massage device of claim 13 wherein the shaft is received in an opening defined in an end of the compliant shaft damper.
 15. A method for using a massage device that includes a housing, an electrical input, a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical input and the motor, the switch configured to selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, an actuated output operatively connected to the motor, wherein the actuated output is configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, and a first treatment structure having a first shape removably secured to the actuated output, wherein the method comprises the steps of: applying the first treatment structure to a body part; activating the switch such that the first treatment structure reciprocates at a frequency of between 15 Hz and 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between 0.15 inches and 1.0 inches and provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to the body part; removing the first treatment structure and replacing it with a second treatment structure having a second shape; applying the second treatment structure to the body part; and activating the switch such that the second treatment structure reciprocates at a frequency of between 15 Hz and 100 Hz, and at an amplitude of between 0.15 inches and 1.0 inches and provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to the body part, wherein the housing includes a gear member disposed therein that rotates about a gear rotation axis, wherein the actuated output is operatively connected to the gear member, wherein an eccentric interface is disposed on the gear member at a location other than the gear rotation axis, wherein the massage device includes a reciprocator shaft operatively connected to the eccentric interface, and a containment member, wherein a head of the reciprocator shaft is contained by the containment member to restrict motion of the reciprocator shaft to a linear motion that is perpendicular to the gear rotation axis, wherein the containment member defines a reciprocation space in which the head of the reciprocator shaft can reciprocate, wherein the containment member includes legs that extend toward the gear member and at least partially define the reciprocation space, and wherein each leg defines a step on an inside surface thereof. 